Sermonette on the Mount

If you know the name of the town I worship in, the title of this article will be a tinge more funny. If you're not used to some preachin', (my eyebrow is raised and I'm tsk-ing with my tongue) this might just run you off. If you're at the least ECO faithful (Easter, Christmas Only), it should still ring true. :)

Have you ever felt like you've been so blessed that you really kind of scratch your head and think, "why me"?  I heard someone say once that if you scratch your head and ask that when times are hard, you should equally do the same, when you feel like your "cup runneth over".

Recently, we took the opportunity to donate clothes to a family in desperate need. Why did I say took the opportunity? We have that chance every day to help someone around us. Whether we actually take that opportunity is something entirely different.

I have also heard someone else say it is impossible to outgive God. The very same day that we were able to pass on clothes to another family that so desperately needed it, I went to Publix and nabbed 6 boxes of Cheerios for free. Do I think God is a genie that pops out and grants wishes? No. Do I think He wants to use us to bless the lives of others either financially, spiritually, etc? Yes. Here was my Publix run today:

I spent $30 and saved a whopping $90.

• 6 boxes of Cheerios
• 4 jars of Mt Olives pickles
• 3 containers of Lloyd's BBQ
• 2 containers of Cool Whip
• 2 containers of Coffeemate creamer
• 2 pkgs Dixie bowls
• 3 pkgs Dixie plates
• 6 boxes Hamburger Helper
• 4 jars Newman's Own spaghetti sauce
• 2 bottles Heinz ketchup
• 1 bag Bird's Eye frozen peas
• 2 bottles V8 Splash
• 2 bags Carefree pantyliners
• 1 box Capri Sun
• 2 bags tortilla chips (penny item of the week)

Amazed at how it all worked out, tonight we will be donating some food to our church's food pantry, as well; not for our glory, but for God's.

We recently suffered a substantial financial loss due to the fledgling economy in 2008. We closed a business, but still are responsible for the loan (a.k.a. stupid tax) we took out to open it. Due to our decisions, I needed to return to working a full-time job to help make ends meet.

Why am I telling you all this? If you're in the middle of your darkest night, whether it's financially, spiritually, physically, etc, there is a morning coming. There is a brighter tomorrow. When your dawn breaks again, share the wealth (and your experience) with others because "to those who has been given much, much will be required".

You never know when your next opportunity will come to help another person. Question is, will you take it? Have a great rest of the week and save on, friends! --Now quick, somebody pass the collection plate! :)